#Japan #Digital Divide #smartphone #Hino City

Hino City Supports Seniors with Smartphone Purchase Subsidies

In an effort to address the digital divide among the elderly population, Hino City has announced a subsidy program for residents aged 65 and older. This initiative aims to encourage seniors to purchase smartphones, enabling them to better engage in our increasingly digital society. Here’s what you need to know about this exciting program:

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the subsidy, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
1. Residence: You must be registered as a resident of Hino City at the time of application.
2. Age: Applicants must be 65 years of age or older as of March 31, 2024.
3. First-Time Purchase: This program is intended for individuals purchasing a smartphone for personal use for the first time. This includes those transitioning from traditional cell phones or older smartphones without NFC functionality or based on outdated operating systems (OS) - specifically OS versions older than iOS 15 or Android 8.
4. Purchase Period: The smartphone must be purchased from designated stores during the period from November 10, 2025, to March 31, 2026, and the application for the subsidy should be made on the same day of purchase.
5. Official Registrations: Applicants must register with the official Tokyo application and add the Tokyo and Hino city official LINE accounts as friends.

Subsidy Amount

Eligible seniors can receive a subsidy of up to 30,000 yen per person. The subsidy covers:

• - Smartphone purchase price
• - Charger costs
• - Contract processing fees
• - Account setup fees

However, please note that communication fees are not included in the subsidy.

Application Period

The application for this subsidy can be submitted between November 10, 2025, and March 31, 2026. The program will close as soon as the budget allocation is fully utilized, even if the application period has not yet concluded.

Application Process

To apply for the subsidy, follow these steps:
1. Purchase the smartphone at one of the designated stores (detailed in the attached guidelines).
2. Attend a smartphone training session to enhance your digital skills.
3. Apply for the subsidy at the same designated store where you made your purchase.
4. The subsidy will be transferred directly to the applicant’s bank account within an estimated 1-2 months following the application submission.

Required Documents

When applying for the subsidy, be prepared to provide the following documentation:

• - Proof of Identity: This can include documents like a My Number card or driver’s license.
• - Banking Information: A bankbook or cash card in the applicant's name.

Conclusion

This initiative not only assists seniors financially but also empowers them to participate in today’s digital landscape. As technology continues to evolve, it's crucial to ensure that all age groups, especially the elderly, have the tools and skills needed to thrive. Hino City’s commitment to bridging the digital divide is commendable and sets an excellent example for other municipalities to follow.